L-Carnitine
What is L-carnitine?
L-carnitine is a lysine and methionine-based molecule generated by the body. It may be acetylated to generate acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR), which is comparable but more effectively penetrates the blood-brain barrier. L-carnitine is well recognized for its role in the oxidation of long-chain fatty acids in the mitochondria.
It’s present in a variety of foods, but it’s most common in meat, particularly beef.
What are the advantages of L-carnitine?
It appears to be particularly useful in the treatment of liver disorders, since it lowers ammonia levels, hepatic encephalopathy symptoms, and numerous indicators of impaired liver function. High-dose supplementation has been reported to increase sperm quality, and a small number of studies have indicated benefits in male fertility. It appears to assist women with polycystic ovarian syndrome by alleviating certain symptoms and increasing fertility in one trial, but further research is needed.
Acetyl-L-carnitine (and maybe L-carnitine as well, although studies exclusively employ ALCAR) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression, however further study is needed to see how effective it is. It appears to decrease tiredness in older individuals with limited muscular endurance, although its benefits on athletes during physical activity aren’t well-documented, despite some evidence of minor increases. L-carnitine may help to reduce muscle damage during resistance training.
Blood pressure, blood glucose, insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, oxidative stress, and inflammation appear to be small benefits. Overall, it appears to be beneficial in the treatment of metabolic syndrome, although it is not the first option.
Studies conducted in isolation do not reveal promising outcomes when it comes to fat-burning. Minor fat loss has been observed in certain studies, which is usually attributed to increased physical activity as a result of higher energy levels.
What are L-carnitine’s side effects and downsides?
A benign side effect of ‘strange scent,’ which is thought to be related to the production of trimethylamines, has been reported in a few trials; it has happened at a frequency of 4%.
Does L-carnitine help with weight loss?
Only if it aids in the reduction of weariness, which leads to an increase in physical activity. Although very low carnitine levels may impede fatty acid oxidation, most people don’t see a significant boost in resting fatty acid oxidation after taking carnitine.
How to take
L-carnitine is usually taken in doses ranging from 500 to 2,000 mg.
Carnitine supplementation comes in a variety of ways. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a supplement that helps with cognitive function. For physical performance and power output, L-Carnitine L-Tartrate (LCLT) is commonly utilized. Intermittent claudication and blood flow problems are treated with Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine (GPLC).
L-carnitine is taken on a daily basis.
Other types of L-carnitine have dose ranges of 630-2,500mg (ALCAR), 1,000-4,000mg (LCLT), and 1,000-4,000mg (LCLT) (GPLC).